Sherrill advances pool reconstruction, authorizes $650,000 bonding to secure state grant

The Sherrill City Commission voted to advance the Elk Glover pool reconstruction project and to authorize local bonding to provide working capital for the grant-funded effort. Staff told commissioners the state will reimburse up to $2,600,000 for the project — about 80% — which reduces how much the city must borrow, but the city still needs approximately $650,000 in local funds to begin work.

Brandon, speaking in the city officials report, laid out the state funding terms and timeline, saying, "We did find out that the, state will pay up to $2,600,000 total for the pool project, which is 80%." He added that the grant requires specified project elements and that some components, such as a splash pad, cannot be removed from the scope even if dollar amounts can be adjusted: "You cannot remove that from the grant. Period. End of story." Staff said design and engineering would proceed after April 1 if approvals and the grant disbursement agreement (GDA) are in place, with bidding possible late 2026 and construction in the April–October season.

Commissioners also discussed operating costs and use levels. One commissioner ran through the pool's present budget, noting annual operating expenses near $120,000 and user income of about $20,000, and questioned long-term affordability. Staff repeated that the state funding reduces borrowing needs but cautioned the city cannot spend grant funds until the GDA is executed.

The action taken was procedural authorization to proceed with the environmental review and bonding steps needed to secure the grant and move toward design and bidding. The commission recorded the motion and a voice vote to advance the item; staff said the city must complete the project within three years of award per grant requirements.